Automatic gearboxes are becoming faster and more efficient. So it’s no wonder that the vending machine is conquering an increasing market share. And yet there is also something to be said for the manual transmission. At least, if they are as fine as these 7.
1. Mazda (Almost all models)
As moderately enthusiastic as we often become about the Mazda automatics, we usually become lyrical about the versions with manual gearbox. Whether it is an MX-5 or a CX-5: the six-speed gearbox shifts wonderfully smoothly and the clutch is pleasantly light. So whether you shift gears mindlessly or just enjoy it, it’s always good in a Mazda.
2. Honda (Civic Type R)
Like Mazda, Honda has a reputation to uphold when it comes to poker itself. The difference is that the shifting pleasure in the Civic Type R goes so much further. A wonderful mechanical feeling, sensitive clutch and an engine that, despite its turbo, requires a skilled switch. That wonderfully cold metal gear knob makes the party complete.
3. Toyota (Corolla and GR Yaris)
Of course: the GR Yaris. Of course, the most acclaimed car of this year is also featured in this section. But funnily enough, the normal models are often equipped with a very pleasant manual transmission with short, precise strokes. At least: if you can find one among all the hybrids.
4. Ford (Focus and Fiesta)
Of course it is not only the Japanese who can build good containers. Which Ford manual gearbox you go for: they all do well. Short strokes and an oiled feel when shifting. Those who want the highest attainable, however, go for an ST. All properties are magnified in it.
5. Hyundai (i30 N)
The Hyundai i30 N was a huge surprise in almost all areas. The role of the excellent six-speed manual transmission may have been a bit underexposed. Still, it’s a very pleasant thing. Very short shifts and while the mechanics require a firm hand, it’s also one of the most accurate-shifting hot hatches.
6. Porsche (718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder)
Porsche is one of the few sports car manufacturers to remain faithful to the manual transmission, although the share of 911s and 718s with PDK is usually much higher. Although the manual seven-speed gearbox from the 911 is a nice curiosity, it is the six-speed gearbox from the 718 (especially the GT4/Spyder) that is the absolute pinnacle. Direct, tight and solid.
7. Mini (Cooper S)
Also at Mini, the manual gearbox is becoming an endangered species. In fact, we had to dig so deep into the archives for a photo that we ended up with the previous generation. This does not alter the fact that Mini makes excellent buckets with very short strokes, even if the length of the poker suggests otherwise. And the modern automatics are also faster with Mini, but a Cooper S with manual gearbox is perhaps the most fun per linear meter that you can get with the brand.
Image: crop P90142948_highRes_mini-cooper-02-2014.jpg
– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl